Empowering Oklahoma’s Children with the Gift of Communication

Our Mission

At Joyful Noise AAC, our mission is to empower Oklahoma children who have no, minimal, or unreliable speech by providing them with free access to communication devices and ensuring their voices are heard. We are committed to supporting families and professionals through comprehensive training, fostering meaningful connections, and promoting inclusion, so every child can express themselves with confidence and joy.

What We Do

Joyful Noise AAC provides free communication devices to Oklahoma children who are non- or minimally-speaking.These tools—called AAC devices, short for augmentative and alternative communication—help children express themselves when they cannot rely on natural speech.

How We Do It

Many of the devices we provide are donated or reutilized iPads equipped with specialized communication apps that allow children to use pictures, words, and voice output to communicate their thoughts, needs, and feelings.But we know that giving a child a device is only the beginning. That’s why we also offer training and resources to families, speech-language pathologists, educators, and other communication partners.Our mission is to ensure each child not only has access to a voice but is also surrounded by people who know how to support them as they learn how to use it—because communication isn’t just about talking; it’s about connection.

It’s our joy to play a small part in helping children experience communication and connection—often for the very first time.

Why We Do It

For the estimated 2 million U.S. children who cannot rely on natural speech, finding their voice starts with someone who believes they can.At Joyful Noise AAC, we believe communication is a sacred part of being human—a way to connect, belong, and be known. We’re here to break down barriers and offer children the tools, support, and belief they need to express themselves fully.Through access to AAC devices, training, and ongoing support, we empower children who are non-speaking or minimally-speaking to connect, learn, and thrive in meaningful relationships.

We hope to play a small but powerful role in giving children the chance to be heard, to be known, and to take part in the joy of meaningful connection.

Get Involved

01

Donate a Device

Given the popularity of iPads and how often they're upgraded, it's likely that countless perfectly functional devices aren’t just being discarded—they’re sitting unused in drawers and closets, waiting for a second life.By donating and refurbishing these iPads, we can provide essential communication tools to children who rely on AAC, turning potential waste into opportunities for connection and expression.We accept donations of certain qualifying devices to recycle as a communication device for a minimal or non-speaking child.Click below to find out what devices we can accept!

At Joyful Noise AAC, we turn unused or retired devices into powerful tools for communication—because every child deserves to be heard.
Donate today and help us create joyful noise.

02

Support Us

Joyful Noise AAC is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and relies on the partnership and generosity of our donors to continue our work. We are grateful for any and all contributions.Your donations are used to purchase iPads, protective cases, carrying straps, communication apps, chargers, and other expenses to keep our mission going!

03

Volunteer

Looking for volunteer opportunities?
We have a few tangible ways you or your group can help!
Reach out to learn how you can help.

Resources

Find the Support You Need

Whether you're a speech-language pathologist or a parent, we're here to help.
Explore our curated resources designed to equip and encourage you on the AAC journey.

Apply for a Device

At Joyful Noise AAC, we believe every child is created to connect, communicate, and be known. We provide reutilized iPads with communication apps, protective cases, straps, and accessories to children with complex communication needs.If you're a speech-language pathologist supporting a child who may benefit from AAC, we’d be honored to come alongside you. The process is simple, relational, and focused on the child’s strengths and story.
Note: We provide gently used devices that are intentionally prepared to support joyful communication.

Training for Parents and Professionals

We partner with speech-language pathologists, parents, and educators to support AAC implementation. Our team offers consulting, application support, app demos, and training on assessment and implementation. We also provide on-site or virtual “Lunch & Learn” sessions for clinics and schools. Contact us to learn more or schedule a training.

Meet the Joyful Noise Team

Sarah Hunter, M.S., CCC-SLP
Founder, Board President, Director

Sarah is a licensed speech-language pathologist with over a decade of experience helping children with diverse communication needs.
As the founder of Joyful Noise AAC, she's passionate about removing barriers—cost, access, and awareness—that prevent non-speaking and minimally-speaking children from receiving essential communication tools. Her mission is to empower children to communicate while equipping speech-language pathologists to confidently guide families in using AAC devices.
Based in Yukon, Oklahoma, Sarah's work is rooted in her love for Jesus and belief that every voice matters. She serves as a deaconess at Frontline Church while building relationships through therapy, ministry, and everyday life.
A proud wife and mother of four, Sarah cherishes coffee, laughter, community, and research. Her work is marked by an unwavering commitment to ensuring every child is seen, heard, and known.

Diane Holland, M.S., CCC-SLP
Co-founder, Board Vice President

Diane is a seasoned speech-language pathologist with over 40 years of experience serving children and families with compassion and expertise. Her clinical work has supported children with diverse communication needs—from autism and hearing loss to speech disorders and fluency challenges—helping each child build confidence and connection.
As founder and CEO of Holland Pediatric Therapy, Diane leads a multidisciplinary clinic providing therapy services to children across Oklahoma. Her leadership has been recognized statewide, including being named to The Journal Record's "50 Making a Difference."
With decades of experience, Diane continues to pour her passion into her work, her clinic, and mentoring the next generation of therapists. Her career reflects a lifelong dedication to empowering families and giving children the tools to flourish.

Martin Holland, MBA
Board Treasurer, CFO

Martin is an accomplished business coach and entrepreneur with over 50 years of experience across multiple industries—from agriculture and biotech to manufacturing and contracting. Before coaching full-time in 2011, he helped launch or reorganize eight businesses.
Since then, he has guided more than 550 business owners nationwide to reduce stress, gain freedom, and increase profitability. Named a #1 business coach by Influencer Digest, Martin authored the Amazon #1 New Release, The Profit Problem: They Say I Make Money, So Why Don't I Have Any?
He lives in Norman with his wife Diane—founder of Holland Pediatric Therapy and fellow Joyful Noise board member. Together, they have three grown children and share a passion for empowering others to thrive.

Haley Ryder, MUP
Board Member

Haley brings a heart for people and a strong nonprofit background to the Joyful Noise AAC board. A proud Oklahoman and lifelong friend of founder Sarah Hunter, she’s a passionate follower of Jesus with a deep love for connection and service.With experience in campus ministry through CRU and a Master’s in Urban Planning, Haley now works as a Senior Project Manager at Greystone. Her strengths in donor relations, fundraising, and mission-driven communication make her an invaluable part of the team. She loves the outdoors, a good comedy, and meaningful friendships—and she’s deeply committed to the mission of Joyful Noise.

Anna Fullington
Board Member

Anna is a lover of Jesus with a heart for serving others. She brings a unique blend of nonprofit experience and business leadership to the Joyful Noise AAC board. She and her husband run a family dental practice in Yukon, Oklahoma, where they care deeply for their patients and community. Anna is passionate about helping every child find their voice and believes in the life-changing power of communication. Her wisdom, faith, and administrative insight are a blessing to the mission of Joyful Noise AAC.

We want to hear from you!

Reach out to share your stories, send encouragement, or inquire about our mission!

SLP Resources

These resources are curated to support speech-language pathologists in assessing, selecting, and implementing AAC systems with confidence and clinical insight. Whether you're looking for tools to guide your evaluations or ideas for ongoing support and modeling, we hope you find something helpful here.

Parent Resources

We know AAC can feel overwhelming at first. These resources are here to help you learn, grow, and feel confident supporting your child’s communication journey. You’ll find simple explanations, practical tools, and ideas to make AAC a natural part of everyday life.

Assessment Resources

AAC assessment is all about finding the best communication fit for each unique individual. This page is designed to guide clinical decision-making, encourage collaboration with families, and support thoughtful feature matching.While this isn’t an exhaustive list, these resources represent well-established and widely used tools in AAC practice. We encourage you to use your clinical judgment and adapt these tools based on each child’s needs, environment, and support team.We hope these resources help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

AAC Evaluation Tools

Choose a tool that fits your context—whether you're collecting baseline data, identifying communication intent, or preparing for a formal recommendation.

🔗Joyful Noise AAC Caregiver Questionnaire
The Joyful Noise AAC Caregiver Questionnaire invites families to share their child’s strengths and communication needs to help guide meaningful AAC recommendations.
🔗 WATI Assessment Guide
A foundational tool to guide teams in identifying needed AAC features based on student strengths, challenges, and environments.
🔗 Communication Matrix
An online tool available in 14 languages. Especially helpful for early communicators. Supports next-step planning across modalities.
🔗 DAGG-3
A decision-making tool to guide AAC selection. Helps SLPs match communication methods with motor, sensory, and cognitive profiles. Great for teams needing a structured, evidence-informed process.
🔗 Functional Communication Profile – Revised (FCP-R)
An informal tool to describe communication skills and support AAC decision-making. Widely used to guide both assessment and goal-setting.

Feature Matching & AAC Selection Guides

Use these tools to compare systems and confirm essential AAC features based on your evaluation, observations, and caregiver input.

🔗CALL Scotland AAC App Wheel
Visual tool that organizes apps by complexity and communication function.
🔗 Joyful Noise AAC App Comparison Guide
A clinician-curated comparison of commonly used AAC apps to support matching and justification.
🔗 Oklahoma AT Center Feature Matching Comparison
Provides a side-by-side overview of AAC systems and access features used across Oklahoma.
🔗 Marx & Locust AAC Feature Matching Overview
Outlines key categories for matching AAC features with individual needs.
🔗 Link AT: Feature Matching for AAC
Guides teams through core considerations when selecting devices or apps.
ℹ️ Note: These tools are meant to guide—not prescribe—AAC decisions. Please confirm current features and software updates before making final recommendations.

Implementation Resources
coming soon...

Teaching Strategies
Tips for modeling and supporting AAC use

Goals & Data
Resources for writing goals and tracking progress

App & Device Help
Quick guides and tutorials for specific AAC tools

Vocabulary Tools
Helps for choosing and organizing words

🔗Vocabulary Selection Questionnaire for Preschoolers
A research-based questionnaire to help teams choose meaningful, functional vocabulary for children using AAC. Great for gathering input from families, teachers, and SLPs to personalize a child’s communication system.

Everyday Use Ideas
Ways to use AAC at home and school

Learn About AAC

Coming soon...

Home Implementation Ideas

Coming soon...

AAC Application Process

We’re so glad you’re here. Below is a simple overview of how to apply for a AAC device through Joyful Noise AAC.We work directly with speech-language pathologists to match each child with the right AAC tools—always with care, collaboration, and joy.

Step 1: Request an Application

Let us know you're interested.
When devices are available, we’ll send the SLP Application and Parent Consent Form links to the SLP.
Request Application Material

Step 2: Parent Consent

A parent or guardian fills out a short form giving permission to move forward with the application.

Step 3: SLP Application

The SLP completes a guided form that walks through essential AAC considerations.
Use your clinical insights and tools from our SLP Resource Page to recommend the best fit.
We trust your clinical judgment and are here to support you along the way.

Step 4: Device Delivery

If approved, we arrange delivery for the recommended AAC device—ready to support joyful communication.